Welcome to Missoula, Montana –
where rugged mountains, a winding river, and a vibrant community scene all converge within city limits. As you explore Missoula, you’ll find yourself constantly reaching for your camera – and your sense of adventure. This is a place where you can hike from downtown into wilderness by lunchtime, watch surfers ride a river wave in the evening, and cap the night off with local pizza under neon storefronts. In this travelogue-style guide, we’ll journey through ten ultra photogenic Missoula destinations. Put on your walking shoes, grab some local grub (we’ll drop tasty recommendations along the way), and get ready to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Missoula like a true local.
Mount Jumbo – Wildlife Vistas Above the City
Mount Jumbo’s broad, open slopes rise up on Missoula’s north side, guarding the mouth of Hellgate Canyon and the Clark Fork River below. From nearly every street corner in town you can spot “Jumbo” towering in the distance, often capped with its white block “L.” Hiking up Mount Jumbo in the early morning, you’re greeted by golden light spilling over the Missoula Valley. You might catch sight of mule deer browsing among the ponderosa pines, or even a herd of elk grazing – this mountain provides important wildlife habitat as well as expansive views of the valley below. In spring, the hillside bursts into color as wildflowers take over, painting the slopes with arrowleaf balsamroot and lupine. The popular trail to the “L” is a moderate climb that rewards you with a panorama of Missoula’s cityscape framed by distant ranges. Ambitious hikers can continue past the “L” to Jumbo’s summit for an even grander 360° view – but even halfway up, you’ll feel on top of the world.
After hiking down, you’ll likely be craving a treat. Follow your nose to Le Petit Outré, a beloved local bakery, and reward yourself with a buttery croissant or a baguette sandwich. There’s nothing like sitting on a park bench, pastry in hand, still riding that hiker’s high as you gaze back up at Jumbo’s silhouette. Missoula’s morning scenes don’t get more photogenic (or satisfying) than this.
Mount Sentinel – Missoula’s Iconic Panorama
A view of Mount Sentinel’s famous “M” from across the river (University of Montana’s campus sits just below this beloved hike).
If Mount Jumbo watches over Missoula from the north, Mount Sentinel stands guard on the east – home to the giant “M” that proudly represents the University of Montana. Hiking the Mount Sentinel “M” Trail is practically a rite of passage here. Don’t let the steep switchbacks intimidate you; locals will reassure you that the view from the “M” is worth the trek. In just about a mile of uphill effort, you’ll gain a lofty perch above the city. Catch your breath next to the big concrete “M” (you’ve seen it from town, now you’re in the postcard), and soak in a breathtaking panorama: the entire Missoula Valley unfurls below, cradled by mountain ranges and cut through by the glinting Clark Fork River. In autumn, the campus below is a sea of golden leaves; in summer, the valley is vibrant green and buzzing with life. Whether you hike up at sunrise to watch the valley wake up, or at sunset to see city lights blink on, the scene is pure Montana magic.
What makes Sentinel extra special is its proximity to the city. The trailhead is right at the edge of campus, so you’re as likely to see a family with kids and a dog as you are a student squeezing in an evening run. It’s not uncommon to exchange friendly nods (or a joking “Almost there!”) with others on the trail – Missoula’s warm community vibes extend even to its mountainsides. After your hike, you’ll be ready to refuel. Just down the road in the Hip Strip neighborhood is Tagliare Delicatessen, famous for its rock-and-roll themed gourmet sandwiches piled high on fresh Le Petit Outré bread. Grab a couple of hefty sandwiches to go – one for now, and one for later – and maybe a cold soda. You’ve earned a picnic lunch, and there are no shortage of scenic spots to enjoy it. tagliaredelicatessen.com
Clark Fork River & Kim Williams Trail – Riverscapes and Easy Strolls
In Missoula, a river truly runs through it – the Clark Fork River winds right through downtown, bringing nature into the heart of the city. One of the most scenic views in Missoula can be found along the Riverfront Trail, which parallels the river as it cuts through town. Strolling or biking this paved path, you’ll pass local anglers casting for trout, college kids floating by on inner tubes, and families with strollers soaking up the sun. The river’s gentle currents reflect the sky and surrounding hillsides; in late afternoon the water shimmers with coppery light. You might pause on one of the pedestrian bridges for that perfect photo op: the river below, Mount Sentinel (with its “M”) to the east, and downtown’s historic buildings to the west. The vibe here is tranquil and friendly – joggers and dog walkers smile as they pass, and the sound of flowing water is ever-present, providing a peaceful soundtrack to your urban nature walk.
Keep following the river east and you’ll seamlessly merge onto the Kim Williams Nature Trail, a flat gravel path that continues nearly 10 miles out of town. Almost imperceptibly, city sights give way to cottonwood forests and canyon walls. The Kim Williams Trail meanders along the water’s edge, offering easy walking for all skill levels. Don’t be surprised if you spot wildlife even this close to town – white-tailed deer nibble in the brush, great blue herons stalk the river shallows, and osprey circle overhead looking for fish. In fact, keep your eyes peeled and you might even glimpse a bald eagle or a playful family of river otters. There are plenty of benches and riverfront pull-offs where you can sit and simply absorb the riverscape: the Clark Fork’s cool, jade-colored waters reflecting piney slopes and Montana’s big sky.
When your stomach starts to rumble, downtown is never far. Detour a few blocks to the unassuming Greek Pastry Shop – #1 Gyros for a locally-loved lunch. This little eatery is a Missoula institution, known for its authentic gyros loaded with succulent meat and tangy tzatziki (the shop’s name hints at delicious baklava too). With your gyro in hand, head back to a grassy spot by the river or over to nearby Caras Park. There’s nothing like lounging on the riverbank, lunching like a local while the Clark Fork glides by. It’s the perfect combo of culture and nature: a serene riverside view and a taste of Missoula’s diverse food scene in one go.
